By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Hereda San Pablo Burgos survived the crazy back-and-forth affair opposite Besiktas Icrypex to prevail, 82-74, in the 2021-22 Basketball Champions League Regular Season opener held Monday at Coliseum Burgos.
The back-to-back champions, looking to add more silverware at the end of the season, enjoyed a superb performance by Vitor Benite. The experienced guard registered 27 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter of the Monday “Game of the Week”, among the new happenings introduced by the Champions League for the new season. He made 5/8 from beyond the arc, 10/15 field goals, also dished out four assists generating the game-high 28 efficiency rating.
After a total of 14 lead changes in the Regular Season Round 1 game of Group H, a 13-3 closing run did the job for the Spanish outlet. Benite ignited the winning sprint banking in a couple of triples.
Alex Renfroe added 10 points off 3/3 field goals, eight assists, and five rebounds. Dani Diez and Tyrus McGee finished with nine points apiece for the team coached by Zan Tabak.
On the losing end, Jordan Bone logged 20 points and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson had 15 points. Josh Reaves followed with 14 points despite being limited to only two points after the break.
Before the game, Burgos received its BCL Season 5 winning prize.
Post-game press conference:
EWE Baskets Oldenburg hosting Rytas Vilnius on Wednesday completes the Round 1 schedule of Group H. The four teams will be back in a couple of weeks for Round 2.
Photo Credit: Basketball Champions League